Country Dance & Song Society

Individuals nourished and communities strengthened by dancing, singing, and making music together

We connect and support people in building and sustaining vibrant communities through participatory dance, music, and song. We steward the living traditions of English country dance, contra and square dance, morris and sword dance, and the music that is an integral part of these traditions. Learn more

Photo by Doug Plummer

Giving to dance, music, and song creates healing through togetherness.

Donate to our fall appeal

Help us reach our goal of 400 donors!
Total raised so far towards our goal of $140,000!

What’s New

January 2025 Song of the Month
Jeff Gillett introduces “The Unquiet Grave,” Child ballad number 78. In most versions, the dead lover is male and there is a suggestion of violent death as he “lies slain.” This version has a female lover who is simply dead and buried.
Save the Dates for the 2025 Lifetime Contribution Award Recipients’ Celebrations!
Save the dates for the celebrations of our 2025 CDSS Lifetime Contribution Award winners:
- John Roberts
  May 10, 2025
  Schenectady, NY
  RSVP
- David Surette
  October 19, 2025
  Concord, NH
- Tony Parkes
  November 22, 2025
  Concord, MA
December 2024 Song of the Month
Pete Coe helps us get ready to “Bring the New Year In.” The song carries on the English tradition of mummers’ plays, which have been performed at Christmas since the 17th century.
Work with us!
CDSS has two year-round positions open! Might you or someone you know be the perfect fit? Find more info here, and please help spread the word to folks who may be interested.
From the Mic Episode 28: David Kaynor
The newest episode of From the Mic is out now, featuring the one and only David Kaynor (yes, really!). In this episode, host Mary Wesley shares an interview she recorded with David in 2011, ten years before his passing.
Hurricane Helene Support
We’re compiling a resource to help connect donors with dancers, singers, callers, musicians, and groups who have been directly affected by Hurricane Helene. If you are one of those affected, please fill out this form to be included in the list. If you are fortunate enough to be able to help, read their stories and send your support.